Kicking back in Branchport

Guests from as far away as Holland have spent time at the Country Comforts Bed and Breakfast.

Owners Brenda and Gary Bonisteel greet guests on weekends only. The stone house, called the Adam’s House by some, was built in the 1850s. On at least two occasions, guests have stayed in the house because, they said, they are sure it was in their family at one time. The size and layout of the house lends itself nicely to the B&B business.

The Bonisteels have large quarters in the back. Their laundry room was once the stable. This leaves the entire front of the house for guests. Gary said the 14-inch thick walls provide a sound barrier for guests.

Brenda believes each bed and breakfast takes on the personality of the owners. The Bonisteels' certainly does, what with Brenda's artistic flare. Her handicrafts are featured throughout the guest area, such as the quilted wall hangings that add color to the rooms.

Brenda’s decorating touches are evident in all the guests rooms. The Cottage Room features hearts and flowers and country angels. Large spools of thread sit on a shelf, lending splashes of color to the setting.

She actually uses the spinning wheel and yarn winders seen in the rooms. Brenda said she would like to have sewing and quilting groups come for weekend classes during winter.

“I would like to fill slow months with this sort of thing,” she said.

There is something to do at Country Comfort all year.

“We make maple syrup from the 13 sugar maple trees,” Brenda said. "Guests we had one year were happy to help."

The Bonisteels have a handicapped-accessible guest room on the first floor. They said it may make them one of the few B&Bs in the area to offer these accommodations.

Two living rooms separated by glass paned doors, offer a place for guests to read, watch television or visit.

One of the treats of staying at a B&B is breakfast. Country Comforts offers fresh fruit, homemade breads and muffins, Belgian waffles and French toast. Guests with gluten-free and diabetic issues are also accommodated.

And if guests are really good, Brenda might even make dessert for a late night treat.
“People come in strangers and walk out friends," she said. "We have lots of laughs and have found common threads."

Fast Facts:

Country Comforts Bed and Breakfast, 2915 East Valley Road, Branchport.
Contact: Phone number: (315) 595-2532. E-mail: bgbon@linkny.com.
Directions: Just minutes north of the west branch of Keuka Lake, take a quick turn off Route 54A onto East Valley Road.